Jose Aldo’s Coach “Prayed” For a Conor McGregor Victory at UFC 202

Although Conor McGregor has verbally trashed Jose Aldo repeatedly, and KO’d the renowned fighter last December, the latter’s coach says he was praying for “Notorious” to win at UFC 202.

McGregor outgunned Nate Diaz on Saturday night and received a majority decision victory, and in doing so, avenged the submission loss he incurred against the Stockton star in March. Now it remains to be seen, of course, whether McGregor will return to 145, where he’s the residing champ, and Aldo is holding the interim belt. Dana White has said that McGregor needs to either defend the title next, or vacate it.

Aldo’s coach, Andre Pederneiras, appeared on the latest “MMA Hour” to discuss McGregor’s win, and the superstar’s future. While doing so, the Nova Uniao leader said this (quote via Bloody Elbow.com):

“I prayed for him to win.” Pederneiras said. Now he needs to come back to his division and give Aldo the rematch. I don’t understand why he wants another fight with Nate and doesn’t want to give Aldo a new chance. I can’t understand him. Now he’s saying he might go to lightweight. No way, he needs to go back to featherweight and give Aldo the rematch. He earned it.”

When you consider the storied run Aldo was on before he faced McGregor, it’s kind of hard to argue that he doesn’t deserve a rematch. But, since Aldo was so quickly taken out by his rival, the question is whether there’s a market for a second fight. McGregor certainly doesn’t seem to think so.

Pederneiras’s comments are also interesting, however, as one could argue that Aldo’s chances of receiving a rematch were much greater, if McGregor lost. If Diaz had won again, then the Irish fighter wouldn’t have had as many options for fights, as he does now.

If McGregor doesn’t return to 145, then it looks like Aldo will be facing Max Holloway.